Did Kathleen Wynne write flawed cap-and-trade bill at kitchen table?

Develop revenue-neutral plan subject to rigorous, independent oversight: Thompson

QUEEN’S PARK –Today, Ontario PC Environment and Cap-and-Trade Critic Lisa Thompson called on Premier Kathleen Wynne to drop her flawed cap-and-trade bill and begin developing a revenue-neutral plan that protects taxpayers and is subject to rigorous oversight.

“Over the past couple of weeks, we have seen the Liberals put forward an almost unprecedented number of amendments to their cap-and-trade bill,” Thompson said in Question Period.

“With more than 70 Liberal amendments before committee, it’s time for the Premier to explain why her signature piece of legislation is such a mess. Is it because she also chose to write the cap-and-trade bill on the back of a napkin at her kitchen table over the weekend, or is this just how she handles the rules for Ontario’s democracy?” Thompson asked the Premier.

Thompson was referencing reports that, without any consultation, Kathleen Wynne sat down at her kitchen table and wrote out changes to Ontario’s fundraising rules on a weekend. The Premier dodged Thompson’s questions, leaving it to Environment Minister Glen Murray to answer. Murray said Bill 172 is “one of the most complex pieces of legislation ever introduced” at Queen’s Park, yet he is against proper study of it in committee.

Bill 172 has loopholes big enough to drive a truck through. To name a few, funding decisions will be made in secret; the Financial Accountability Officer will not have access to spending plans, and taxpayers will receive no relief, even though they will be forced to pay, over the long-term, nearly $900 more every year on gas and home-heating.

“Will the Premier admit she messed up, withdraw Bill 172 and begin developing a revenue-neutral plan that protects taxpayers?” Thompson concluded.

To watch Thompson’s question, click on the following link: http://tinyurl.com/hoe2emw.